The last time I saw these wily Scots was at the Royal Northern College
Of Music in Manchester as part of their acoustic tour. It made a change
to see a rock band in a fully seated theatre toning down their act, to
just the songs breathe for a change. Tonight it's business as usual with
a fully charged rock gig (their first in Preston) as a warm up for their
forthcoming support dates for REM. It's a ho, sticky, sweaty night ahead
as we wait very patiently for what seems like an eternity.

Finally, one by one Idlewild casually stroll on the stage. The youngsters
of whom there are many here tonight welcome the band warmly. Roddy Woomble
looks too delicate and sensitive to front such a raucous rock band, but
his folky tinged voice is perfectly pitched for the loud guitars which
are the sound of Idlewild. When he champions how good the fish and chips
are in this thriving fine city he is met with approval from the proud Prestonians
in attendance.

Roddy seems happy to be playing in a slightly smaller venue than usual,
perhaps reminding him of the early days of being in the band. Tracks from
new album "Warnings / Promises" benefit greatly from a live sound with
all members of the band pulling together, creating a tight sound, playing
with vigour and jamming brilliantly with a sense of urgency. "God Steals
Us From Loneliness" is the sound of Idlewild maturing on a hook laden chorus,
a million miles away from the unlistenable racket they started out with
originally many years ago. There's golden oldies played as well like "Hiding
Place" and my own personal favourite, the power charged anthem "A Little
Discourage".

Taking an acoustic route for one song, they treat us to "Not Only Sometimes
But Always" which is layered in three part harmonies which gives the pogo-ing
crowd a bit of a rest although bass player Gavin Fox is sweating profusely
at this juncture which Roddy is keen to point out to everyone.

"I See Shapes" and You Held The World In Your Arms Tonight" raise the
roof with elation as a feeling of euphoria fills the room. I've never seen
Idlewild enjoy themselves so much. REM fans have a lot to look forward
to with such an impressive band on the horizon. They've still got a few
tricks up their sleeves to surprise even the most fanatical of their followers.
Coming back on Idlewild celebrate the fact that it's Independence Day by
dedicating a track to the drummer and his hometown by covering Lynard Skinners
"Sweet Home Alabama" with a great degree of affection. They eclipse this
with another cover, the punk track "I Wanna Be Sedated" which sees Idlewild
really having fun after an exhilarating ninety minute set.

I came here as a fan and left even more of a fan. Tonight Idlewild rocked
Preston to it's very foundations